TORONTO – Stores throughout Ontario might soon be able to operate on Family Day and Victoria Day thanks to a new bill the provincial government is planning to introduce.
The news was shared through a press release today, but it was initially hinted at last month by Premier Doug Ford, who mentioned he couldn’t shop at Home Depot on Family Day.
He expressed his belief that all malls and shops should have the choice to open that day so businesses can generate revenue and employees can receive holiday pay if they wish.
The government states that retail holiday rules differ across Ontario right now, so by taking Victoria Day and Family Day off the list of holidays when most stores must close, it aligns the regulations throughout the province.
This bill would not alter employee rights, including public holiday pay, premium pay, and the option for many retail employees to decline work on a public holiday.
The government hopes to pass this law before this year’s Victoria Day on May 18.
This report by The Canadian Press was first March 13, 2026.
Allison Jones, The Canadian Press
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